2025-01-19
Bangkok has officially inaugurated the Rama X Bridge, an architectural and engineering feat that has already become a new landmark for the city. The new bridge, which crosses the Chao Phraya River, is located close to the existing Rama IX Bridge and is built to reduce traffic congestion and improve the city’s logistics. With a scheduled opening for traffic on January 28–29, 2025, the Rama X Bridge is expected to relieve the burden on the Rama IX Bridge, which currently handles over 150 vehicles daily.
Rama X bridge:
The Rama X Bridge is part of the Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Ring Road project and was built to handle Bangkok's increasing traffic. Here are some key facts about the bridge:
- Capacity and structure: With eight lanes and a main span of 450 meters, the bridge can handle large amounts of traffic and is expected to relieve the Rama IX Bridge, reducing pressure on the city's existing infrastructure.
- Sustainability: The structure is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and earthquakes.
- Cultural Significance: The bridge is decorated with golden naga sculptures and star flowers, symbols of King Rama X and Thailand's rich cultural heritage.
What's happening with the Rama IX Bridge?
The Rama IX Bridge, which opened in 1987, has been a vital link across the Chao Phraya River for over three decades. Once the Rama X Bridge is operational, traffic volume on the Rama IX is expected to decrease significantly, allowing for planned renovations and maintenance. Authorities have announced that work to strengthen and modernize the Rama IX Bridge will begin shortly after the Rama X Bridge is operational. The goal is to preserve the bridge as an important backup link and historical symbol of Bangkok’s infrastructure.
The “Suk Tem Sip” festival is expected to be a colorful celebration for everyone
The inauguration of the Rama X Bridge was marked by the “Suk Tem Sip” festival, which runs until January 19 and is expected to attract thousands of visitors. The festival offers something for everyone, with a focus on celebrating both the bridge and Thailand’s cultural heritage. Visitors will have the opportunity to walk across the bridge for the first time, enjoy spectacular light installations and participate in a range of unique activities.
Food enthusiasts can enjoy over 50 food stalls serving local delicacies from all over Thailand, while traditional handicrafts and OTOP (One Tambon One Product) products are on sale, creating a sense of community and support for local businesses.
Every evening, the area is expected to be filled with traditional Thai music and dance, complemented by modern performances that attract visitors young and old alike. The highlight for many is the opportunity to enjoy a dinner under the stars right on the bridge, with the Bangkok skyline as a backdrop – an unforgettable experience that is captured in hundreds of photos and shared on social media.
The festival also includes a charity race on January 26th, where thousands of participants will run across the bridge before it opens to traffic. The race will give the first 10 registered participants a unique commemorative T-shirt, while the fastest runners will be rewarded with specially designed medals.
Expected traffic opening and future
The bridge is expected to open to vehicular traffic between 28 and 29 January 2025. When the bridge begins operation, it will relieve the pressure on the nearby Rama IX Bridge, reduce travel times and create a more efficient commute between central Bangkok and its western and southern suburbs.
In addition to its practical significance, the Rama X Bridge is also expected to become a major tourist attraction thanks to its unique design and panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River. With a construction cost of 6,6 billion baht, the bridge is not only an infrastructural boost but also an investment in the city's future.
A new chapter for Bangkok
The inauguration of the Rama X Bridge marks the beginning of a new era for Bangkok's infrastructure. Combining functionality and aesthetics, the bridge is a landmark that both simplifies the lives of the city's residents and attracts visitors from around the world.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: davidpheat, Pixabay, original image